Introduction to American Law and Legal System is a revision of the successful Equal Justice Under the Law. It provides the student with an overview of the system of law and government in the United States. While landmark cases and other cases of interest are referenced throughout the text, this is not a case-based textbook. Hypothetical cases are presented to help the student better understand the inner workings of the judicial system in both criminal and civil cases. Six illustrative cases are provided in an appendix to offer practical examples of the major concepts included in the introductory chapters of the text. This text is designed to provide the conceptual tools needed to prepare individuals for their roles as citizens, paralegals, lawyers, teachers, law enforcement agents, government employees, and judges. Key words: Substantive law